There are some obvious ‘don’t’s’ when it comes to the cocktail dress code rules: Shorts and a tank top, for instance, will never be cocktail attire, the same goes for tracksuit pants and denim skirts. But the right pants, blazers, and sparkle all make the ‘do’ list if done the right way.

Whether you’re planning on attending a wedding, a formal, a winter party or a good old-fashioned ladies day, there are some essential items that will forever fall under the cocktail party dress code.

Here are the perfect cocktail items to add to your wardrobe:

Cocktail dress for women – The sophisticated mini dress

The perfect cocktail dress

When it comes to cocktail dresses you can afford to get a little daring and show some leg. A mini dress teamed with a high neckline and long sleeves is the perfect cocktail party dress if you want to be both sexy and sophisticated. Don’t forget to try something a little fun and go for a bold colour or pattern.

If you’re not a dress girl and the event dress code reads ‘cocktail’ never fear – there are acceptable cocktail pants you can wear to such occasions. Ditch the skinny jeans and opt instead for chic wide-leg pant. The cocktail dress code does require a degree of polish, so you should add a blazer and the right jewellery to dress the pants up.

The perfect cocktail pant to add to your wardrobe are the black structure pants by Ginger & Smart, $469

The black structure pants by Ginger & Smart

Cocktail tops for women - a blazer top

An off-the-shoulder blazer

A blazer isn’t just a staple workwear item, it can also be an appropriate cocktail party top especially if you’re also wearing a wide leg pant to the event. Try a military-inspired slim-cut blazer as a top over your pants and with the right jewellery you’ll be in the perfect cocktail dress attire.

When it comes to shoes for a cocktail party you can afford to go a little outrageous. Don’t shy away from bright colours or sparkle especially if you’ve gone for a more simple cocktail party look, make your shoes the statement piece.

Less is more when it comes to statement jewellery and instead of a big and bulky necklace, you can accessorise your cocktail party dress with a chic fashion-forward look that doesn’t look flashy. A short necklace with a single eye-catching stone will tie together your simple but elegant cocktail party look.

A beautiful clutch is a forever piece that can tie together any outfit, and if you read an invite with the words ‘cocktail dress code’ you’ll be wanting the perfect clutch. Whether it's simple in detail or more intricate, a clutch is small enough to not bulk up your outfit but big enough to carry all your essentials.

Milly HaddrickMilly is a freelance journalist who devours all news, from the latest in Australian politics to Meghan and Harry's cutest couple moments. Milly is a devout tea enthusiast who's a firm believer in quality downtime, her weekends are usually spent exploring a new cafe with a nice cuppa and the crossword.